State Bar of Michigan Foundation Honors Thomas Linn
DETROIT (Aug. 8, 2018)—The Michigan State Bar Foundation announced that Miller Canfield Chairman Emeritus Thomas Linn is the recipient of its 2018 Founders Award, which recognizes lawyers who exemplify professional excellence and outstanding community contributions.
Linn has provided significant leadership to ensure that everyone, regardless of income, receives access to justice. As Miller Canfield's chairman emeritus and longtime chairman of the firm's Pro Bono Committee, Linn instilled a culture of pro bono throughout the firm. He is a frequent volunteer in legal clinics sponsored by Lakeshore Legal Aid, the Capuchins and others.
"Thom's commitment to pro bono work and service to the community has been nothing short of inspiring," said Miller Canfield CEO Michael McGee. "Every year, he provides more than 200 hours of pro bono service to those most in need."
Linn has assisted organizations and agencies that facilitate pro bono service and legal service to low-income and underserved communities. He regularly participates in the State Bar of Michigan's American Bar Association Day trip to Washington to advocate for increased federal funding for civil legal aid. He has provided leadership and assistance to the Michigan State Bar Foundation to increase financial resources from the legal community through the Access to Justice Campaign.
In addition to statewide leadership, Linn currently serves on the board of Michigan Community Resources and chairs the board of Lakeshore Legal Aid. He has been involved in transitions with both organizations and has provided tremendous wisdom and support.
Past recipients of the Founders Award include: Dennis Archer, Wallace Riley, Charles Rutherford, Judge Julian Cook, Patrick Bruetsch, Kim Cahill, Judge Avern Cohn, John W. Cummiskey, Hilda Gage, Hon. Harold Hood, Jon Muth, George Googasian and Linda Rexer.
Linn will be recognized at the State Bar of Michigan Awards Banquet on Sept. 26, 2018.
The Michigan State Bar Foundation provides leadership and grants to improve access for all in the justice system, including support for civil legal aid to the poor, law-related education, and conflict resolution. For more information, visit www.msbf.org.